Focusing the Gospel

Key words and phrases: how does this happen to me, the mother of my Lord should come to me

To the point: Mary went in haste to Elizabeth’s house, entered, and greeted her. Elizabeth recognized and responded to the mystery taking place. She expressed astonishment, wonder, amazement: “how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” An even greater astonishment, wonder, amazement: the Lord himself comes to us. How do we respond?

… to the First Reading: How astounding and unexpected that the majestic ruler of Israel should come from so small and insignificant a place as Bethlehem. Even more astounding is that the Son of God should come to share our humanity.

… to experience: We are overjoyed at a visit from a beloved relative or friend whom we have not seen for some time. We are being invited this Sunday to recognize and rejoice over the abiding presence of Jesus, who is beloved relative (brothers and sisters in Christ) and friend.